Oestrogen, Hypopressives & You
Oestrogen Synthesis Across Life Stages: A Holistic Guide for Clients & Movement Specialists
Oestrogen is a powerful hormone that influences countless systems in the body. Its production and role shift dramatically between life stages, making it vital for clients & movement specialists to understand these changes and their impact on physical health. Let’s explore oestrogen’s journey and its implications for movement and lifestyle.
Oestrogen in Reproductive Women
Primary Source: Ovaries.
Secondary sources: Kidneys, adipose tissue, skin, brain, and bones.
Role: Oestrogen circulates through the bloodstream, supporting menstruation, bone density, muscle recovery, and skin elasticity.
Oestrogen Beyond Reproductive Years
Primary Sources: Kidneys, adipose tissue, skin, brain, and bones.
Localised Action: Unlike ovarian oestrogen, this acts locally to support:
Bone Health: Osteoblast activity keeps bones dense and strong.
Metabolism: Adipose tissue balances energy storage and hormonal health.
Skin: Encourages repair and elasticity.
Postmenopausal Adaptations
Shift in Sources: As ovaries slow down, tissues like bone and fat take over oestrogen production.
Why It Matters: This amazing mechanism is critical for maintaining bone density and metabolic stability.
Why This Matters for Movement
Bone Health: Locally synthesised oestrogen supports bone density, especially crucial for prepuberty bone growth and also for postmenopausal women who without this cool ability to shift production would leave women vulnerable to osteoporosis.
Muscle and Fascia: Oestrogen supports flexibility and energy metabolism, essential for movement efficiency.
Posture and Strength Training: Great alignment and well structured resistance exercises promote tissue health and structural resilience.
The Role of Stress and Sleep in Oestrogen Production
Adrenal Fatigue and Hormonal Suppression
Adrenal Glands: After menopause, these produce oestrogen precursors like androstenedione.
Stress’s Impact: Chronic stress elevates cortisol, suppressing adrenal function and reducing oestrogen production. This can lead to:
Poor bone density.
Muscle recovery issues.
Pelvic floor dysfunction.
Hot flashes
Skin rashes
Anxiety
Heart palpatations
Stress-induced adrenal fatigue also heightens pelvic tension, often worsening symptoms like pain or hypertonicity.
Sleep as a Hormonal Ally
Regulating Hormones: Quality sleep ensures healthy melatonin levels, indirectly supporting ovarian function and oestrogen regulation.
Cortisol Control: Adequate rest reduces cortisol, protecting oestrogen synthesis.
Consequences of Sleep Deprivation:
Impaired tissue repair.
Reduced bone remodeling.
Heightened injury risk.
Movement and Lifestyle Practices to Boost Estrogen and Tissue Health
Movement Techniques
Hypopressives and 360° Breathing: These techniques regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and enhance core and pelvic floor function.
Posture Awareness: Proper alignment reduces strain on oestrogen-sensitive tissues like bones and fascia.
Resistance Training: Weight-bearing exercises stimulate localised estrogen production, vital for bone strength.
Stress Management
Breathing exercises and mindful movement like Hypopressives can reduce cortisol and support hormonal balance.
Stress reduction benefits pelvic floor function, preventing tension-related dysfunction.
Sleep Strategies
Create restorative routines, including screen-free evenings and calming activities.
Gentle stretching or breathwork before bed can prepare the body for deep, restful sleep.
Nutrition for Hormonal Health
Phytoestrogens: Foods like flaxseeds, soy, and legumes help balance hormones.
Adrenal Support: Incorporate vitamin C, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids to nourish the adrenal glands.
Connecting the Dots: Oestrogen and the Pelvic Floor
Oestrogen directly influences pelvic floor health by maintaining tissue elasticity, hydration, and strength. When levels dip due to stress, poor sleep, or adrenal fatigue in menopause, the pelvic floor may weaken, leading to dysfunction. Elevated cortisol from adrenal fatigue can exacerbate these issues, creating a cycle of tension and reduced resilience.
Practices like Hypopressives, deep breathing, and mindful movement restore balance, supporting the pelvic floor and overall hormonal health. By addressing stress, sleep, and posture, clients can regain functional strength and confidence.
You Empowering You
By integrating breathwork, posture awareness, stress management, and sleep hygiene into your practice, you can help create an environment for great oestrogen production, enhance tissue health, and thrive at every life stage.
